A Monaghan councillor has welcomed new plans that will provide local politicians with maternity leave for the first time.
The plans which were approved by Cabinet will give local councillors the opportunity co-opt a replacement onto the council if they need to take maternity leave, or alternatively female councillors can keep working and will be given administrative support.
Scotstown councillor, Cathy Bennett, said she was "delighted" with the news, stating that it is a decision that should of been made "long before now."
Speaking to Northern Sound, the Sinn Fein representative also believes that the decision will entice more women to "get involved" in politics.
She added that the option of maternity leave will help local councils "progress" and hopefully get to a stage were an even number of men and women are taking part in chamber conversations.
